A pair of local coaches with a track record of success are among eight finalists in their respective sports across the country for National Coach of the Year honors.

Pella Track and Field Head Coach Brent Van Hauen and Indianola Boys Wrestling Coach Clint Manny were both named 2026 National High School Athletic Coaches Association honorees.

The two were both respectively nominated for this national honor by their state’s high school coaches’ association. This selection was based on longevity, service to high school athletics, honors, championship years, and winning percentage. The nominees and finalists are evaluated by experts in the field of coaching using a sport-specific rubric to assign points in each category. The National High School Athletic Coaches Association is the oldest coaches association in the nation, formed by coaches, for coaches, and has been recognizing national coaches of the year since 1978.

Van Hauen has led Pella to the Class 3A state track and field championships in 2013, 2016, 2021, and 2023, which has included several individual state and Drake Relays champions in that timespan. The Dutch have placed in the top three of 3A every year since 2021. Brent is also an assistant coach for the Pella football team, which has been in the UNI Dome and state finals in each of the past two seasons.

Manny has guided Indianola back to the state boys wrestling duals this season and is coming off of a winter to remember in 2024-25. The Indians placed 2nd at the State Dual Meet, won an undefeated Little Hawkeye Championship, and qualified 10 to state, including state champion sophomore Mac Crosson. Indianola competes this Saturday at XTREAM Arena, with live coverage featured on 94.3 KNIA.